Spectator Guidelines

 

Spectators are encouraged to attend NYSGA championships and are expected to follow the guidelines listed below to ensure fair and safe play for all contestants in the field:

 

  1. Spectators attend NYSGA events at their own risk.
  2. Spectators are expected to maintain a reasonable distance (20 yards) from players and caddies to avoid the appearance of giving assistance or imparting advice to a player. Spectators may approach a player to exchange items, (food, beverages, clothing, etc.) but should refrain from prolonged conversation.
  3. Additionally, we ask that spectators do not;
    • Talk or move near a player while they are preparing for or playing a shot
    • Walk down the center of any fairway, or on any putting green, tee box, or bunker
    • Pick up any golf balls that they may find
    • Delay other groups by walking slowly
    • Position themselves on or near a player’s line of play, or
  4. Provide any rulings or advice.
  5. Please walk with or ahead of the group you are watching and stay in the rough or near the cart path. Do not walk on greens or through bunkers.
  6. The use of electronic devices is allowed, but their use is limited as follows:
    • All devices are to be silenced.
    • Calls are only permitted in the parking lot or in other designated areas.
    • Use of data (i.e. e-mail, texting, etc.) is permitted in all areas.
  7. Spectators are to meet the dress code requirements for the course. Tank tops, t-shirts, cut-off, athletic or short shorts, and denim clothing are not acceptable.

 

While on the golf course spectators are encouraged to:

  • Take pictures, if the action does not disrupt play. Be sensitive to the fact that players can be nervous!
  • Assist players in searching for lost golf balls. But only start to search once the player begins to search and do not touch or pick up any balls that you find. The player must come and identify the ball.
  • Watch some exciting golf!

 

If a spectator is found to violate this policy, they will be approached by an NYSGA official and asked to comply. If multiple violations occur, the spectator may be asked to leave the golf course.